Art After Hours: Late Night Laughs

Overview

If the cold has got you a little blue this winter, then a dose of sidesplitting comedy could be just what the doctor ordered (as well as that flu shot). Luckily, the Art Gallery of NSW is adding some homegrown comedy to its usual Wednesday night Art After Hours routine.

In conjunction with this year's Archibald Prize, Late Night Laughs will take over the gallery for four Wednesday evenings over the next month — July 17, 24, 31 and August 7 — with one Aussie comedian and a musical performance each night.

On July 17, award-winning comedian Aaron Chen will take the stage. Earlier this year, Chen was awarded the Director's Choice Award at Melbourne International Comedy Festival. So, he's a pretty big deal. Following Chen is Sri Lankan-born blues artist Roshani.

Then, on July 24, the affable Nikki Britton will take the stage. Britton's career has included the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Oxfam Gala, ABC's Comedy Up Late and The Comedy Channel's Just For Laughs Festival. Performing after Britton will be Australian Egyptian musician Mariam Sawires, with genre-defying tunes.

At its third instalment, Late Night Laughs will host rising star Dane Simpson (Deadly Funny competition finalist 2015). He's appeared on Have you been paying attention? as well as ABC's Comedy Up Late. After some hilarious gags, you'll be treated to acclaimed jazz artists Joy Yates and Dave MacRae, too.

Rounding out the program, on August 7, is Sydney-based comedian Rose Callaghan. The award-winning comic is a regular on Triple J and ABC Radio, plus, the powerhouse also won Best Comedy at the Sydney Fringe Festival. After Callaghan and her witty banter, you'll be treated to local jazz musician George Washingmachine.

Each and every week of Art After Hours: Late Night Laughs is free and no bookings are required. Just show up and be prepared to laugh — a lot.

Late Night Laughs is part of AGNSW's Art After Hours program. The comedy series will run each Wednesday, from July 17 to August 7, and is in conjunction with the Archibald Prize.